Mallikarjun Temple: Kailash Of The South

By Sneha

Wednesday, June 27, 2012, 10:17

Mallikarjun temple is located at a height of 457 metres by the banks of Krishna river in Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh. It is dedicated to Lord Mallikarjun (an incarnation of Lord Shiva). Mallikarjun is one of the most sacred pilgrimages in South India and is also referred to as 'Kailash' of the South. It is one of the twelve Jyoirlingas and one of the greatest Shaivite shrines in India. The presiding deities of this Jyotirlinga are Mallikarjuna (Shiva) and Bhramaramba (a form of Parvati).

Mythological Significance

Mallikarjun temple finds a mention in ancient Hindu epics. An ancient Hindu text named 'Skanda Purana' even has a chapter dedicated to this Jyotirlinga. The place Srisailam is referred to in 'Mahabharata'. There are two stories running in the history of the temple.

Ganesh was married before Karthik due to which Karthik became sad and went away to a mountain. All Gods went to console him but failed. Karthik went away as soon as he came to know that both his parents, Shiva and Parvati have arrived to take him home. Since then Lord Shiva resided in this place in the form of a Jyotirlinga.

Stories also tell that Lord Shiva's sacred bull, Nandi had performed severe penance till Lord Shiva and Parvati appeared before him as Mallikarjuna and Bhramaramba .

It is said that once you visit Mallikarjun, you are emancipated from all sins and escape the ever vicious circle of life and death.

Structure

Mallikarjun temple has incredible huge fort like walls and pillars with intricate carvings on them. The architectural works on this temple is considered as one of the best time pieces. It has lofty pillars and huge courtyards.

Other Attractions

Mahashivratri is an occasion of massive celebration in Mallikarjun. A huge fair is conducted on the eve of Mahashivratri and people come for a visit from all over the globe. A 512 metres long Srisailam Dam is a major source of attraction here. It is built amongst the amazing natural beauty of plateaus, dense forests and cliffs.

Srisailam sanctuary is one of the major tiger reserves in the country. It is also a home to many other animals like leopard, deer etc. People visit this place all throughout the year.

Travel

By Bus: State transport as well as private buses connect Srisailam to other major cities like Hyderabad (211kms), Vijayawada (194kms) and Tirupati (278kms). All these places are well connected to all major cities in the country.

By Rail: The nearest rail head to Srisailam is Markapur Road (58kms), while the major railway station being Hyderabad (211kms). Hyderabad is well linked to all major railway stations in the country.

By Air: Hyderabad (211kms) is the nearest airport to Srisailam connecting all other major states.

A visit to Mallikarjun can serve many purposes. You will not only get the divine opportunity of visiting a Jyotirlinga but will also enjoy the pleasure of being in the lap of nature.